It has definitely not been a dull two years for workout brands. Sweaty, high-energy workout studios had to pivot to survive during the pandemic as there was a great need to work out, but how could they bring it to consumers? One of those brands that did a superb job of taking a challenge head-on was group fitness boxing workout Rumble.
Ashley Camerini was promoted to Rumble’s CEO in 2020 after acting as EVP. Oh what a time to be promoted! But she did not shudder but led the brand on its launch of Rumble TV. These digital classes are full-body, cardio & strength virtual workouts designed for students at every level. Rumble TV offers four core fitness offerings: Boxing, HIIT, Strength and Running for $29/month and $249/year. No equipment is needed for any of these segments, making them perfect for a home workout…that may have to take place in your bathroom or closet.
The digital platform was a success but once it was safe enough Rumble fans wanted to be back in the studio. The company was started in Chelsea, New York City in 2016 by Noah Neiman (former Barry’s Bootcamp Master Trainer, and cast member of BRAVO’s Work Out New York), Eugene Remm (Co-Founder EMM Group—Catch, Lexington Brass, Tenjune, SL), Andy Stenzler (Co-Founder Cosí, Kidville), and Anthony DiMarco (13 time IRONMAN, former Managing Director, Google). It has since expanded to Los Angeles, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Palo Alto, and San Francisco and a Chicago location is coming soon.
Ladders was lucky enough to speak with Camerini about the brand and how she runs a thriving company during a pandemic.
What does a typical day look like to you? Is it different than it was pre-pandemic?
Every day is unique, which is what I love about my job. I always start my day with a workout to wake me up! Once the day starts, it is usually a mix of one-on-one meetings with my direct reports and full department meetings to ensure we are all marching toward the same goals.
You really pivoted to digital during the pandemic? Was that a super stressful time?
Launching a digital business was always a part of our business plan so the actual process of launching Rumble TV wasn’t too stressful. Instead, our whole team was able to unify and focus on something that we had wanted to create for quite some time. It is rare that you are able to see a new product come to life so quickly – and we couldn’t have done it without the effort of every person at our company.
What do you look for when you are hiring someone? Is there something you try to spot during the interview process? What sticks out to you?
Passion. Passion for both the company and the role is what gets creative juices flowing in good times, and it’s what helps us endure the tough times too.
What is the hardest part about being a leader? What do you struggle with as a leader the most?
The hardest part is that there is no blueprint for being a good leader – and it’s not something you can learn from a book. Every person on your team is different – with different personalities, goals, and communication preferences. A leader must be able to motivate their teams in ways that resonate with their distinct personalities.
How do women set themselves up for success right now in their careers?
Always offer to help with something new at work. Even if it might be a little out of your comfort zone, the best way to expand your career is to expand the types of work that you’re exposed to – even if you aren’t an expert at it at first.
What has been the best part about seeing people return to in-person classes?
That moment when 60 people come out of the room smiling and sweaty. There is absolutely nothing that beats it. Pure happiness and joy coming out of every bone in their bodies. I always say I love my job because we get to spend our time creating the best 45 minutes of everyone’s day.
Some questions we always like to ask – or If I could give advice to my 16-year-old self, it would be….
The best advice I ever got was…to prioritize the team that you’re working with when you are looking for your next role. Positive trends in the category and a killer concept for the company are important, but if the team isn’t the right fit for you, you probably won’t end up staying very long in the role.
Be a good boss to yourself
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